SIR J. G. WARD.

Hawera & Normanby Star, Volume XLII, Issue 7398, 26 February 1902, Page 2

SIR J. G. WARD.

RECEPTION AT ELTHAM.

(BY TELEGRAPH— RESIDENT AGENT.) Eltham, February 26.

Sir J. G. Ward arrived by train this morning, accompanied by Messrs F. McGuire and E. M. Smith, M's.H.R. He was- met at the station by the Mayor, Mr G. W. Tayler, and driven to Campbell's Hotel, where the Minister received deputations. In reference to the request for a totalisator permit for the Eltham Racing Club, Sir Joseph said there was no power to increase permits, and urged the Club to get representation on the Conference.

The separation of the Post Office from the Railway Station was brought forward. Sir Joseph said the matter was now being considered by Cabinet, and a small amount had been placed on tho Estimates for this object.

Another deputation asked for endowments for the borough, but the Minister said that the request should be made to the Minister of Lands in writing. En* dowments, though not abolished, were not given as plentifully now as in the . early days. He promised to bring the matter of the Courthouse before the Minister for Justice, and also to enquire into the matter of increased accommodation at the railway station. The question of a railway between Eltham and Opunake was brought up, and Sir Joseph Ward said he would be pleased to look at the country that day, and bring the matter before the Minister for Public Works.

In reference to the High School for Eltham, Sir Joseph Ward said he would see the Minister for Education on the matter. He congratulated Eltham on the evident signs of progress.

Sir Joseph Ward, Messrs McGuire and Smith, and the Mayor left in a trap for Opunake, and will return tonight, when Sir Joseph Ward leaves for Patea.